A GOOD VINTAGE: TRENDS IN ARTS AND AGING PROGRAMS C A R A G O G E R M A R I P O S A C O U N T Y A R T S C O U N C I L CONFLUENCE 2015 – A STATEWIDE ART CONVENING, APRIL 15-16, 2015 (Californians for the Arts)

The F/STOP photography program is aimed at Mariposa residents over the age of 55 and is Mariposa County Arts Council’s first lifespan learning program.F/STOP F/STOP consists of a series of free, 4-week digital photography classes focused on the artistic elements of photography and is designed to promote creativity, self-expression, and increase comfort with digital technology. The culminating event is a multi-sited public exhibition (Arts Council’s gallery and the Mariposa County Library) of the artwork created by participants. F/STOP images are also heavily featured on the Arts Council’s tumblr page.tumblr

The Big Picture

Key Drivers Population Demographics for Mariposa County

Key Drivers Research on the Benefit of Creative Arts Programming for Older Adults The Creativity and Aging Study (2006) conducted by George Washington University demonstrates that community- based programs led by professional artists “point to true health promotion and disease prevention effects” (Gene D. Cohen M.D., Ph.D., Primary Investigator. The Center on Aging, Health and Humanities, The George Washington University.)

F/STOP Classes Artist-in- Residence/Curriculum Introductory Class Vantage Points Composition Elements of Art Lighting Intermediate Class Principles of Design Personal Project Residential Facility Class Scaled Curriculum

Inspired Learning Framework F/STOP’s program learning and social outcomes have been informed by the Inspired Learning Framework model developed by the Museums, Libraries, and Archives Council of the United Kingdom. Inspired Learning Framework Generic Learning Outcomes:

Knowledge/Understanding and Skills Taking F/STOP classes was like learning yoga. I may have exercised, I may have breathed, but practicing yoga with gentle guidance allowed me to relax and appreciate. Now, when I take a photo, I look for blank space, for shadows and repetition, for texture, for interesting shapes and layers and a new perspective. I relax and appreciate. F/STOP participant Chery Davis F/STOP participants develop photography and visual literacy skills.

Activity/Behavior/Progression and Enjoyment/Inspiration/ Creativity F/STOP participants continue in art activities after participating in the program

Inspired Learning Framework Generic Social Outcomes:

Stronger/Safer Communities, Health/Well Being, Strengthening Public Life [F/STOP] was a wonderful introduction to photographic composition with the added bonus of bringing together people in our ‘over 55’ community with shared interests. The instructor’s warmth and openness inspired and challenged us to view our surroundings in new ways. The environment was supportive, nurturing and filled with much laughter and innovation. F/STOP Participant Caron Amos

Partnerships Local Health Care District County Library Local Senior Center Area 12 Agency on Aging Hospital Foundation

Sources/Resources Cohen (2006) The Creativity and Aging Study: The Impact of Professionally Conducted Cultural Programs on Older Adults. The National Endowment for the Arts/The Center on Aging, Health and Humanities, The George Washington University Cohen et al. (2006) The Impact of Professionally Conducted Programs on the Physical Health, Mental Health, and Social Functioning of Older Adults. Gerontologist, Vol. 45, No. 6 (pp ) Hanna and Perlstein (2008) Creativity Matters: Arts and Aging in America. Monograph/Americans for the Arts Inspired Learning Framework, MuseumsInspired Learning Framework, Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (UK) Museum of Modern Art’s (MoMA) Meet MeMeet Me National Center for Creativity and Aging